If getting on the wrong side of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano this summer gives you the jitters, then get a little French fix on this side of the ash plume and head to Montreal. It's a beautiful destination, and English is welcome. Plus, this summer presents three great reasons to go.

From June 12 through Aug. 14, eight countries, including the United States, face off on Saturday nights in what can be considered the Olympics of pyrotechnics. Known as L'International des Feux Loto-Quebec, or the Montreal Fireworks Festival, the competition was founded in 1985 and in its first season drew more than 5.7 million people. It's been a hit ever since, drawing more than 3 million sore necks a year. Pre-sale tickets are based on a person's height, so show prices start at about $35 for people 54 inches tall and $26 for those shorter. Taxes are not included (www.interna tionaldesfeuxloto-quebec.com/en/).

Then there's the jazz. The Montreal International Jazz Festival runs June 25 through July 6. This legendary fest stations stellar performers at various venues in Montreal. This year will see headliners such as Bobby McFerrin, Cassandra Wilson, Herbie Hancock and Dave Brubeck (www.montrealjazzfest.com).

Still not convinced? New this year is the Montreal Festival of Circus Arts, with than 100 circus artists from Belgium, Germany, Spain and Canada to Montreal to perform in the debut of this international festival, July 8-25. For an overview (and to test your French), visit www.montrealcomplete mentcirque.com or call 1-800-361-4595.